🇸🇬 ADHD Diagnosis in Singapore
Singapore represents the "Developed Asia" model: highly structured, efficient, and offering a clear choice between Subsidized (Public) and Private care. It is a medical hub for the surrounding region.
Quick Summary
- Pathway: Polyclinic Referral (Public) OR Direct Private Access
- Cost: Public: SGD $40–$60 (Subsidized) | Private: SGD $250–$600+ (Initial)
- Wait Time: Public: 4–6 Weeks (Median) | Private: 1–3 Days
- Key Requirement: Formal diagnosis by a Psychiatrist or Clinical Psychologist.
The Hybrid Healthcare Model
Public (Subsidized)
You visit a GP (Polyclinic), get a referral to the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) or NUH. Costs are very low for citizens/PRs, but you cannot choose your doctor and wait times are longer.
Private
You pay a premium for speed, privacy, and choice of specialist. Preferred by expats and adults valuing discretion.
Recommended Clinics
Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
The primary government facility. It hosts the Neurobehavioural Clinic (NBC) specifically for ADHD.
- • Highly subsidized
- • Structured care pathways
- • Access to multidisciplinary teams (OT, Speech Therapy)
Thomson Paediatric Centre (Private)
A popular choice for children and adolescents.
- • Child-friendly environment
- • Developmental paediatricians
Promises Healthcare (Private)
Focused on holistic mental health for adults and professionals.
- • Psychiatry & Psychology under one roof
- • Focus on executive function coaching
- • High privacy standards
Treatment Options
Medication
⚠️ Strict Laws
Singapore has some of the strictest drug laws in the world.
- • Allowed: Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and Atomoxetine (Strattera).
- • Banned: Adderall and Vyvanse are generally not available and bringing them into the country without prior HSA approval is illegal.
Therapy
- • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is standard.
- • Occupational Therapy (OT) is heavily used for children to help with handwriting and sensory regulation.
Cost & Wait Times
Public (IMH)
- Cost: ~SGD $45 per consult (Subsidized)
- Non-residents: Pay private rates even at public hospitals (~SGD $150+)
- Wait Times: IMH median wait time is ~26 days
Private Assessment
- Cost: A full diagnostic report can cost SGD $1,500 – $3,000
- Wait Times: Private clinics can often see you the same week
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Choose Route
Decide between saving money (Polyclinic route) or saving time (Private route).
Step 2: Referral (Public Only)
Go to a Polyclinic, describe symptoms, and ask for a referral to the "Neurobehavioural Clinic" at IMH.
Step 3: Intake Interview
Your first session is often an intake to gather history, followed by a second session for the actual diagnosis.
Step 4: School Action
A diagnosis here triggers the "Access Arrangements" protocol for PSLE and GCE exams (extra time), which is very formalized.
⚠️ The "Gotcha"
There are several critical gotchas to be aware of when seeking ADHD diagnosis and treatment in Singapore:
- • Strict drug laws: Singapore has some of the strictest drug laws in the world. Adderall and Vyvanse are generally not available and bringing them into the country without prior HSA (Health Sciences Authority) approval is illegal. Only Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and Atomoxetine (Strattera) are allowed.
- • National Service implications: For males, a severe ADHD diagnosis can affect your PES status (medical grading) for mandatory military service. This is an important consideration for Singaporean males.
- • Insurance coverage gap: Most local Integrated Shield Plans (private insurance) do not cover ADHD/developmental conditions. International expat insurance usually does, but local plans typically exclude these conditions.
- • Non-resident rates: Non-residents pay private rates even at public hospitals (~SGD $150+ per consult), so the cost advantage of public care is lost if you're not a citizen or PR.
- • HSA approval required: If you're bringing ADHD medication from abroad, you must obtain prior approval from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Unauthorized importation can result in serious legal consequences.
Important Considerations
National Service (NS)
For males, a severe ADHD diagnosis can affect your PES status (medical grading) for mandatory military service.
Insurance
Most local Integrated Shield Plans (private insurance) do not cover ADHD/developmental conditions. International expat insurance usually does.
Common Screening Tools Used in Singapore
Before your formal assessment, you may encounter these screening tools. These are commonly used by Singaporean healthcare providers and can help you prepare for your evaluation:
ASRS-6 Short Form
WHO-developed screener used globally. Quick 6-question assessment often used as an initial screening tool in Singapore.
Take ASRS-6 →DIVA-5 Self-Check
Widely used in Singapore. Based on the comprehensive diagnostic interview, uses DSM-5 criteria.
Take DIVA-5 →CAARS-S (Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale)
Used in Singaporean assessments. Provides subscale scores for inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and self-concept.
Take CAARS-S →BRIEF-A (Executive Function)
Measures executive function problems. Often used alongside ADHD assessments in Singapore, especially for comprehensive evaluations.
Take BRIEF-A →All Screening Tools
Explore our complete collection of ADHD and related screening assessments.
View All Screeners →Related Resources
Important Reminder
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for diagnosis and treatment decisions. Healthcare systems and provider availability may change over time.
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